Sri Lanka is taking a significant leap towards a more sustainable future with the launch of a groundbreaking project called “Charge While You Shop.” This initiative, a collaboration between Cargills, a Sri Lankan retail giant, and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), aims to make renewable energy more accessible to electric vehicle (EV) owners.
The project integrates EV charging stations powered by solar energy into Cargills Retail locations in Colombo. This initial phase represents a mere first step. By leveraging Cargills’ extensive network of over 520 retail outlets and 70 KFC locations nationwide, the plan is to significantly expand the number of EV charging stations across Sri Lanka in the coming months.
This partnership between the public and private sectors serves multiple purposes. It enhances Sri Lanka’s energy security by promoting renewable energy usage. Furthermore, it fosters economic growth by encouraging the adoption of EVs. Finally, the project contributes to mitigating the effects of climate change by reducing reliance on fossil fuels for transportation.
U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, acknowledges the importance of private sector involvement in tackling development challenges. She commends Cargills for its strong partnership with the United States on this and other initiatives.
Cargills also recognizes the transformative potential of “Charge While You Shop.” The project not only expands access to renewable energy but also aims to shift mindsets towards sustainable transportation solutions. Cargills expresses pride in supporting Sri Lanka’s movement towards a sustainable future powered by clean energy.
This innovative partnership between Cargills and USAID paves the way for Sri Lanka to become a leader in renewable energy adoption, ultimately creating a more sustainable future for its citizens.